Data Science Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is dedicated to delivering innovative ideas and actions aimed at empowering and transforming Africa. Established to address the continent's unique challenges, ECA operates under the guiding principles of the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 206

• The organization focuses on five strategic directions: enhancing its role as a premier knowledge institution, developing macroeconomic policies for economic diversification, designing innovative financing models, addressing regional challenges, and advocating for Africa's position in global governance. ECA employs a diverse workforce and operates across multiple countries in Africa, contributing to sustainable development and regional integration.

Job Overview:
The Data Science Assistant position is situated within the Regional Integration and Trade Division (RITD) of ECA. The role involves supporting the division's objectives by leveraging data science methodologies to inform policy-making and decision-making processes. The assistant will work under the guidance of the division's Director and report directly to the Chief of the Market Institutions Section. The position requires a proactive approach to data exploration, identification, and acquisition, ensuring that data sources are suitable for advancing the organization's goals. The assistant will collaborate with team members to address data-related requests, explore alternative data sources, and bridge any data gaps. The role also includes developing socio-economic databases, analyzing globalization trends, and contributing to client training and product development. The Data Science Assistant will be expected to adjust visualization and presentation products to effectively communicate findings to clients, thereby enhancing the overall impact of the division's work.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Data Science Assistant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Preparing responses to requests for data exploration and acquisition, ensuring the suitability of data sources for policy-making.
• Collaborating with senior staff to maintain relationships with key clients, leveraging data science methods to support programmatic areas.
• Assisting in the design and development of data science products, applying analytical methods such as AI, machine learning, and predictive analytics.
• Developing and maintaining socio-economic databases and qualitative information for specific assignments.
• Analyzing globalization trends with a focus on Africa's integration into the global economy.
• Providing client training and developing tools to enhance client capabilities.
• Customizing visualization products to present analytical findings effectively.
• Preparing data sets upon request and maintaining/updating web pages.
• Performing other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Additional studies or training in fields such as computer science, software engineering, data science, statistics, applied mathematics, data management, or information systems are desirable. The role requires a strong understanding of data science tools, statistical programming languages, and methods for handling large datasets. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, client orientation, and technological awareness, showcasing their ability to analyze and interpret data effectively.

Educational Background:
A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position. Candidates with further studies or training in relevant fields such as computer science, data science, statistics, or applied mathematics will be preferred. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of data analysis and the application of various data science methodologies.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of experience in data analytics related to social and economic development data is required. However, this requirement is reduced to five years for candidates who hold a first-level university degree or higher. Experience in data visualization tools is also desirable, along with at least one year of experience in data analytics or a related area. This level of experience is crucial for effectively contributing to the division's objectives and ensuring the successful application of data science methods.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French, another official UN language, is considered an advantage. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the organization and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, meaning that candidates must be residents of Ethiopia or within commuting distance of the office. Staff members recruited locally are not eligible for allowances or benefits exclusive to international recruitment. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its workforce, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, or background. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and candidates are advised to apply online as soon as possible.